Port operator DP World’s Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), a free economic zone at the western end of Dubai, has launched the UAE’s first green storage and warehouse facilities and is set to install 88,000 PV modules across its Dubai facilities' rooftops.

Some cool storage facilities are now running entirely on solar energy, while many other Jafza warehouses are set to become more energy efficient as DP World’s Solar Programme is rolled out over the coming years.

The project includes construction of what is supposedly the largest distributed solar rooftop project in the Middle East, with the planned installation of the 88,000 rooftop panels, which are expected to produce enough clean power for the equivalent of 3,000 homes a year.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO of DP World, said: “Building green infrastructure allows us to reduce carbon footprint in our facilities. By investing in these projects, we also encourage the development of new skills, driving economic growth and job creation. It's a win-win for all.”

Few months ago, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with one of the largest shipyards in the Middle East to share its expertise in solar power. Drydocks World, a shipyard in Dubai that focuses on large crude carriers, is run by DP World, which is itself majority owned by Dubai World.